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Helpful Info from Charles Martin Roofing

More Than Shingles: Peeling Back the Roofing Layers

It is easy to concentrate on the mere outer layer of your roofing system at first glance, but a complete roof is made up of several different parts. The integrity of your Colleyville, TX roof is dependent on all of these being in prime condition. Most roofing systems are comprised of seven layers. Charles Martin & Son Roofing informs you about the installation process every step of the way. Let’s take a look at each below.

1. Support

Structures are only as good as the foundation they sit on. Your roof is no different. Generally speaking, this is usually made up of metal or timber beams within the United States. Other parts of the world may use materials that are native to the areas such as bamboo. Regardless of what structural material is used, the support has to be strong enough to hold up the roof.

2. Insulation

Although insulation wasn’t as common on older systems, it has become standard due to the increase in modern, energy-efficient roofs. The best place for insulation is on the underside of the roof between the support structures. This process has come a long way, with spray insulation making it easier to apply.

3. Decking

The roof desk, also known as sheathing, creates the core surface of the roof and is installed onto the support structure. Various materials can be used including plywood, roof pavers, reinforced concrete, metal, or OSB sheets. It ultimately depends on whether it is a residential or commercial structure as well as the codes within the area.

4. Starter Shingles

Often, the first row of shingles is applied directly to the decking. They can either be hand-cut or pre-made adhesives. Either way, they are installed with a slight overlap and are designed to keep your shingles from being blown off during severe storms.

5. Underlayment

The next layer is applied to the decking in order to seal below the shingles as well as give them a smooth, even surface. The type of underlayment material used dependents on the application. For example, a slate roof will have a different underlayment than asphalt shingles.

6. Outer Layer

The majority of roofs used shingles, though some flat systems will use rubber roofing covered in gravel. There are endless choices when it comes to shingles. Not only are they the visible layer, but they are the key line of defense for your home. Flashing is also utilized in this layer, which is metal incorporated into areas where shingles hit other materials like chimneys, walls, and vents.

7. Finishing Shingles

The seams and edges of the roof receive special attention including ridge caps, which are specially made to create a seal at any ridges of the roof. Many of these are installed on top of ventilation strips to provide additional attic ventilation.